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Topic: Not Enough Hive Frames (Read 2238 times)

I have a problem. I have six pounds of bees and two queens on the way. I have two hive bodies. However I only have 10 complete Frames with foundations. My replacement foundations haven't arrived yet, and I am afraid my bees will get here first. My question is: Can I put five frames in each hive body to get the bees in and add the other complete frames when the foundations arrive?

Jerry's method would be the safest way to go. Cut the foundation and give them 10 frames with half sheets each. If you only give them 5 frames, there is no guarantee they won't opt to built their own comb in the empty space vs. drawning the foundation. After all, foundation is not natural to them and it is not their favorite thing to do.

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"Opportunity is missed by most people because it comes dressed in overalls and looks like work." - Thomas Edison

You could also whip up a couple division boards. Some people feel they take off alot faster with a smaller area to manage. Then when you got the rest of your equipment, pull the boards and kick everything to the center.

You could also make a follower board. Take a 2 x 12 and a deep fram and mark the frame out on the 2x12 and cut it out. Then just place those on either side of the frames in the middle. This will prevent them from building comb from the inner cover.